At a cinema not so far away, hundreds of excited film lovers queued to see the first screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
ESP’s Mikey Clarke was there to catch up with them before and after the midnight showing to get their thoughts on the highly anticipated movie…
Gav Miller – ESP Film/Game Critic
Before: “The prequels are no way near as bad as people make them out to be. But saying that, I do hope this instalment is of a better quality. I’m confident that this will be a great movie. I don’t think it will be a 5 star, but it should be a crackin’ ride nonetheless.”
After: “It was exactly what I thought it would be. It wasn’t quite exceptional, but it was very, very good. I loved the new characters – who worked really well with the old ones. Based on this instalment, the future of the franchise is looking very positive.”
Hannah Fryer (38) from Parnwell
Before: “I’ve never actually seen a Star Wars film in my life. My boyfriend has dragged me here tonight. I don’t think I’ll hate it, but I don’t think I’ll love it either.”
After: “I loved it. It probably helped that I went in with low expectations. I may regret saying this, but I’m tempted to watch the other films in the series!”
Darren Williams (26) from Stamford
Before: “The last few Star Wars films almost ruined the franchise for me. I’m going in tonight with an open mind though. Fingers crossed it will be good.”
After: “This could actually be the best one yet. It’s completely restored my faith in the franchise.”
Paul Gilbert (40) from Bretton
Before: “I’ve read a lot of positive reviews. I almost wish I hadn’t because my expectations were already high. Hopefully they’re not too high.”
After: “It’s not quite as good as I had hoped it would be. But it is much better than I feared it would be. It was a lot of fun. I’d happily see it again.”
Laura Darby (19) from Werrington
Before: “I’m not a hard-core Star Wars fan, but I think it’s going to be good. I regret attending the midnight showing though – I’m so tired.”
After: “Brilliant! As expected, the action was amazing. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of humour thrown in. I highly recommend it.”
Read ESP’s full review of the film by Gav Miller on this site and catch Star Wars: The Force Awakens over the coming weeks at Showcase Cinema.
Visit www.showcasecinemas.co.uk for the latest up-to-date show times. You can also join the chat on Twitter @showcasecinemas or on Facebook by searching for ‘Showcase Cinemas’.
Mikey Clarke
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